Conduit switching valve for endoscope, and endoscope

Abstract

An air feed liquid feed button 11 has an air feed liquid feed shaft 33, which can be inserted into an air feed liquid feed cylinder 13 capable of circulating a fluid and the position of which in the air feed liquid feed cylinder 13 can be adjusted, and a plurality of ribs 68 arranged on an outer periphery of the air feed liquid feed shaft 33. Each rib 68 has an inclined surface 68a inclined at an acute angle with respect to a longitudinal direction (central axis Ax) of the air feed liquid feed shaft 33.

Description

Pipe switching valve for endoscope and endoscope

[0001] The present invention relates to a conduit switching valve for an endoscope that switches fluid conduits by moving back and forth within a cylinder, and to an endoscope.

[0002] Conventionally, endoscopes are used to observe a target site inside a subject, such as a body cavity, and to perform various treatments on the target site as needed. Endoscopes generally have a conduit switching valve for starting and stopping the supply of air, liquid, and suction to the subject, etc.

[0003] For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a conduit switching valve having a piston (shaft member) inserted into a cylinder of an operating unit, multiple seal rings provided on the outer periphery of the piston, and a rotation-stopping protrusion that engages with an engagement groove in the cylinder. The technology disclosed in Patent Document 1 optimizes the positioning of the rotation-stopping protrusion to prevent the piston from getting stuck in the cylinder even when the piston is inserted at an angle relative to the cylinder.

[0004] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2007-190055

[0005] However, the technology of the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 does not prevent the shaft member from being inserted obliquely into the cylinder, and therefore there is a risk that the shaft member may not be sufficiently prevented from becoming stuck in the cylinder.

[0006] In response to this, it is conceivable to prevent the shaft member from getting stuck by increasing the diameter of the shaft member to narrow the gap between the cylinder and the shaft member and limiting the angle at which the shaft member is inserted into the cylinder.

[0007] On the other hand, if the gap between the shaft member and the cylinder is narrowed, there is a risk that air bubbles may adhere to the shaft member and remain in the cylinder when switching from air to liquid in a pipeline switching valve for air / liquid supply, etc. In particular, in an ultrasonic endoscope, if the balloon is inflated with liquid without removing the air bubbles from the cylinder, there is a risk that the air bubbles mixed in the balloon will interfere with proper ultrasonic observation.

[0008] The present invention has been made in consideration of the above circumstances, and aims to provide a conduit switching valve for an endoscope that is easy to insert into a cylinder and can quickly eliminate the introduction of air bubbles during liquid transfer, and an endoscope.

[0009] A conduit switching valve for an endoscope according to one aspect of the present invention comprises an axial member that can be inserted into a cylinder through which a fluid can flow and whose insertion position within the cylinder is adjustable, and a plurality of ribs that are arranged on the outer periphery of the axial member and have inclined surfaces that are inclined at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal direction of the axial member.

[0010] An endoscope according to one aspect of the present invention has a conduit switching valve for an endoscope, which includes an axial member that can be inserted into a cylinder through which a fluid can flow and whose insertion position within the cylinder is adjustable, and a plurality of ribs that are arranged on the outer periphery of the axial member and have inclined surfaces that are inclined at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal direction of the axial member.

[0011] According to the present invention, insertion into the cylinder is easy, and the inclusion of air bubbles during liquid transfer can be quickly eliminated.

[0012] Schematic diagram of an endoscope. Cross-sectional view of the main parts of the air / liquid feed button and the air / liquid feed cylinder. Cross-sectional view of the main parts of the air / liquid feed button. Cross-sectional view of the main parts of the air / liquid feed button and the air / liquid feed cylinder when the leak hole is blocked. Cross-sectional view of the main parts of the air / liquid feed button and the air / liquid feed cylinder in the first pressed state. Cross-sectional view of the main parts of the air / liquid feed button and the air / liquid feed cylinder in the second pressed state. Cross-sectional view of the main parts showing the periphery of the through-hole opened and closed by the check valve. A sectional perspective view of the second seal ring with an integrally formed check valve. Cross-sectional view of the main parts showing measures to release the check valve from sticking. A perspective view of the slider. Air bubbles adhering to the rib during liquid feed. sectional view of the suction button and suction cylinder in the first pressed state; sectional view of the suction button and suction cylinder in the second pressed state; sectional view of the suction button and suction cylinder in the first pressed state; sectional view of the suction button and suction cylinder in the second pressed state;

[0013] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] The endoscope 1 shown in Fig. 1 is, for example, a reusable ultrasonic endoscope that is cleaned, disinfected, or sterilized after use and then reused. However, it may also be a single-use ultrasonic endoscope in which all or at least some of the components of the endoscope 1 are disposed of after a single use. The endoscope 1 includes an insertion section 2, an operation section 3, and a universal cable 4.

[0015] The distal end 6 of the insertion section 2 is provided with an air / liquid supply nozzle 7 , a channel opening 8 a , and a balloon 9 .

[0016] The air and liquid supply nozzle 7 is a nozzle for supplying air and liquid to an objective optical system (not shown). A nozzle air and liquid supply conduit is connected to the air and liquid supply nozzle 7. The nozzle air and liquid supply conduit is branched into a nozzle air supply conduit 7a and a nozzle liquid supply conduit 7w, for example, inside the operation unit 3.

[0017] The channel opening 8a is formed at the tip of the treatment instrument channel 8. The proximal end side of the treatment instrument channel 8 is connected to a treatment instrument insertion port 8b in the operation unit 3. Furthermore, inside the operation unit 3, a channel suction conduit 8v branches off from the treatment instrument channel 8.

[0018] The balloon 9 is used during ultrasonic diagnosis. The tip of a balloon conduit 9a is connected to the inside of the balloon 9. The balloon conduit 9a branches into a balloon fluid supply conduit 9w and a balloon suction conduit 9v, for example, inside the operation unit 3.

[0019] The operation unit 3 is provided with an air / liquid supply button 11 and a suction button 12 .

[0020] The air / liquid feed button 11 is a button for feeding air and liquid to the tip portion 6 in response to an operation by a user or the like. The air / liquid feed button 11 is detachably attached to the air / liquid feed cylinder 13.

[0021] The nozzle air supply pipe 7a, the nozzle liquid supply pipe 7w, and the balloon liquid supply pipe 9w are connected to the air / liquid supply cylinder 13. Furthermore, the air / liquid supply cylinder 13 is connected to the air supply pipe 10a and the liquid supply pipe 10w.

[0022] The suction button 12 is a button for performing suction at the distal end portion 6 in response to an operation by a user or the like. The suction button 12 is detachably attached to the suction cylinder 14.

[0023] A channel suction pipeline 8v and a balloon suction pipeline 9v are connected to the suction cylinder 14. Furthermore, a suction pipeline 10v is connected to the suction cylinder 14.

[0024] An air supply conduit 10a, a liquid supply conduit 10w, and a suction conduit 10v are inserted through the universal cable 4. Furthermore, various signal lines, light guides, etc. (none of which are shown) are inserted through the universal cable 4.

[0025] An endoscope connector 15 is provided at the extending end of the universal cable 4. The endoscope connector 15 has a light guide connector 15a and a video connector 15b. The light guide connector 15a can connect the light guide to a light source device (not shown). The video connector 15b can connect various signal lines to an image processing device (not shown).

[0026] Inside the endoscope connector 15, the air supply conduit 10a branches into a first branch conduit 10a1 and a second branch conduit 10a2. The first branch conduit 10a1 is connected to an air supply nozzle 15c. The air supply nozzle 15c is capable of connecting the first branch conduit 10a1 to, for example, an air supply pump 16 built into the light source device. The second branch conduit 10a2 is connected to a liquid supply nozzle 15d. The liquid supply nozzle 15d is connectable to the upper part (gas layer) of the liquid supply tank 19 via an air supply tube 19a. Furthermore, the liquid supply conduit 10w is connected to the liquid supply nozzle 15d. The liquid supply nozzle 15d is connectable to the lower part of the liquid supply tank 19 via a liquid supply tube 19b. Note that degassed physiological saline is stored in the lower part of the liquid supply tank 19. The suction pipe 10v is connected to a suction nozzle 15e, which can be connected to a suction pump 17 via a suction tube 17a.

[0027] 2 to 6, the configurations of the air / liquid feed cylinder 13 and the air / liquid feed button 11 will be described. In this embodiment, the air / liquid feed button 11 corresponds to a specific example of an endoscope conduit switching valve.

[0028] 2, the air / liquid feed cylinder 13 has a cylindrical shape with a bottom. In the following description, in the direction along the central axis (longitudinal axis) Ax of the air / liquid feed cylinder 13 and the air / liquid feed button 11, the bottom side of the air / liquid feed cylinder 13 is defined as the tip side, and the opening side of the air / liquid feed cylinder 13 is defined as the base side.

[0029] The air / liquid supply cylinder 13 has, in order from the tip along the central axis Ax, a first cylinder portion 13a, a second cylinder portion 13b, a third cylinder portion 13c, and a fourth cylinder portion 13d.

[0030] The first to fourth cylinder portions 13a to 13d have different inner diameters. That is, the inner diameter of the second cylinder portion 13b is set smaller than the inner diameter of the first cylinder portion 13a. The inner diameter of the third cylinder portion 13c is set larger than the inner diameter of the second cylinder portion 13b. The inner diameter of the fourth cylinder portion 13d is set larger than the inner diameter of the third cylinder portion 13c.

[0031] The first cylinder 13a is provided with a through-hole 35a. The through-hole 35a penetrates, for example, a side wall of the first cylinder 13a in a direction perpendicular to the central axis Ax. The upstream end of the nozzle liquid supply conduit 7w is connected to the through-hole 35a.

[0032] The second cylinder portion 13b is provided with a through hole 35b and a through hole 35c. The through hole 35b and the through hole 35c penetrate, for example, the side wall portion of the second cylinder portion 13b in a direction perpendicular to the central axis Ax. The through hole 35b is located on the distal side of the second cylinder portion 13b. The downstream end of the liquid supply conduit 10w is connected to this through hole 35b. The through hole 35c is located closer to the proximal end than the through hole 35b. The upstream end of the balloon liquid supply conduit 9w is connected to this through hole 35c.

[0033] The third cylinder portion 13c is provided with a through-hole 35d. The through-hole 35d penetrates, for example, a side wall portion of the third cylinder portion 13c in a direction inclined with respect to the central axis Ax. The upstream end of the nozzle air supply pipe 7a is connected to the through-hole 35d.

[0034] The inner circumferential surface of the third cylinder portion 13c is provided with a first tapered surface 36a and a second tapered surface 36b. The first tapered surface 36a is provided at the boundary between the second cylinder portion 13b and the third cylinder portion 13c, closer to the distal end than the through hole 35d. The second tapered surface 36b is provided at the boundary between the third cylinder portion 13c and the fourth cylinder portion 13d, closer to the proximal end than the through hole 35d.

[0035] Furthermore, a through-hole 35e is provided in the third cylinder portion 13c. The through-hole 35e penetrates, for example, an L-shaped portion of the side wall of the third cylinder portion 13c. As a result, one end of the through-hole 35e opens to the outer circumferential surface of the third cylinder portion 13c. The other end of the through-hole 35e opens to the bottom surface of the fourth cylinder portion 13d. The downstream end of the air supply pipe 10a is connected to one end of the through-hole 35e.

[0036] Here, a mouthpiece 37 is provided on the outer periphery of the fourth cylinder portion 13d. This mouthpiece 37 is a member for detachably connecting the air / liquid feed button 11 to the air / liquid feed cylinder 13. For this purpose, an engagement protrusion 37a is provided on the outer periphery of the mouthpiece 37.

[0037] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 , the air / liquid supply button 11 includes a base 31 , a spring receiving tube 32 , and an air / liquid supply shaft 33 .

[0038] The base 31 is a member for connecting the air / liquid supply button 11 to the air / liquid supply cylinder 13. The base 31 has, in order from the tip along the central axis Ax, a first base portion 31a, a second base portion 31b, and a third base portion 31c. Each of the first to third base portions 31a to 31c has a substantially cylindrical shape. Furthermore, the first to third base portions 31a to 31c have different outer diameters and inner diameters. As a result, the base 31 has a multi-stage, substantially cylindrical shape.

[0039] The outer diameter of the first base portion 31a is set to be smaller than the inner diameter of the third cylinder portion 13c of the air / liquid supply cylinder 13. This allows the first base portion 31a to be inserted into the third cylinder portion 13c.

[0040] A plurality of through holes 42a are provided in the middle of the first base portion 31a. Each through hole 42a penetrates, for example, a side wall portion of the first base portion 31a in a direction perpendicular to the central axis Ax. As a result, each through hole 42a communicates between the inner space and the outer space of the first base portion 31a.

[0041] A first seal ring 43a is provided on the outer periphery of the tip end of the first base portion 31a. This first seal ring 43a is made of a resin material such as silicone rubber. When the first base portion 31a is inserted into the third cylinder portion 13c, the first seal ring 43a elastically deforms and abuts against the first tapered surface 36a. This allows the first seal ring 43a to airtightly seal the tip end of the first base portion 31a and the tip end of the third cylinder portion 13c.

[0042] A second seal ring 43b serving as a second elastic member is provided on the outer periphery of the base end of the first base portion 31a. This second seal ring 43b is made of a resin material such as silicone rubber. When the first base portion 31a is inserted into the third cylinder portion 13c, the second seal ring 43b elastically deforms and abuts against the second tapered surface 36b. This allows the second seal ring 43b to airtightly seal the base end of the first base portion 31a and the base end of the third cylinder portion 13c.

[0043] Furthermore, a check valve 44 is integrally formed with the second seal ring 43b. This check valve 44 has, for example, a substantially cylindrical shape. When the second seal ring 43b is attached to the first base portion 31a, the check valve 44 airtightly closes each of the through holes 42a. This check valve 44 elastically deforms in the outward radial direction when the air pressure inside the first base portion 31a is higher than the air pressure outside the first base portion 31a by a predetermined amount or more. This causes the check valve 44 to open each of the through holes 42a. On the other hand, when the air pressure inside the first base portion 31a is lower than the air pressure outside the first base portion 31a, the check valve 44 maintains the closed state of each of the through holes 42a.

[0044] In this way, the first seal ring 43 a, the second seal ring 43 b, and the check valve 44 form a closed space inside the first base portion 31 a, which prevents the fluid in the lumen from flowing back into the nozzle air supply conduit 7 a even when the pressure inside the lumen into which the endoscope 1 is inserted increases.

[0045] The outer diameter of the second base portion 31b is set smaller than the inner diameter of the fourth cylinder portion 13d of the air / liquid supply cylinder 13. This allows the second base portion 31b to be inserted into the fourth cylinder portion 13d.

[0046] The inner diameter of the second base portion 31b is set to be larger than the inner diameter of the first base portion 31a.

[0047] A seal ring 45 is provided on the outer periphery of the second base portion 31b. When the second base portion 31b is inserted into the fourth cylinder portion 13d, the seal ring 45 abuts against the inner periphery of the fourth cylinder portion 13d. As a result, the seal ring 45 airtightly seals the outer periphery of the second base portion 31b and the inner periphery of the fourth cylinder portion 13d.

[0048] The second base portion 31b has a side wall portion provided with a plurality of through holes 42b, each extending along the central axis Ax, thereby connecting the corresponding through hole 35e (air supply conduit 10a) to the interior of the third base portion 31c.

[0049] The outer diameter of the third base portion 31c is set to be larger than the outer diameter of the fourth cylinder portion 13d, and the inner diameter of the third base portion 31c is set to be larger than the inner diameter of the second base portion 31b.

[0050] An outer tubular member 46 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the third base portion 31c. This outer tubular member 46 is formed using a resin material such as silicone rubber. In this embodiment, in order to eliminate insert molding with the base 31 and reduce manufacturing costs, the outer tubular member 46 is formed as a separate member from the base 31. The outer tubular member 46 is then assembled to the outer peripheral surface of the third base portion 31c.

[0051] An engaging recess 46a is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the distal end of the outer tube member 46. This engaging recess 46a can engage with the engaging protrusion 37a. The engagement between the engaging recess 46a and the engaging protrusion 37a fixes the base 31 to the air / liquid supply cylinder 13.

[0052] The spring receiving cylinder 32 is made of a resin material such as polycarbonate, etc. The spring receiving cylinder 32 has a substantially cylindrical cylinder body 32a.

[0053] An outward flange 32b and an outward flange 32c are provided at the tip and middle portions of the cylindrical body 32a in the direction of the central axis Ax, respectively. Each of the outward flanges 32b, 32c has an annular shape. The outer diameter of each of the outward flanges 32b, 32c is set to be approximately the same as the inner diameter of the third base portion 31c. This allows each of the outward flanges 32b, 32c to slide along the inner circumferential surface of the third base portion 31c.

[0054] An inward flange 32d is provided at the base end of the cylindrical body 32a. The inward flange 32d has a circular ring shape.

[0055] The spring receiving tube 32 forms an air chamber Ca inside the base 31. The air chamber Ca is in communication with each of the through holes 42b, allowing compressed air supplied from the air supply pipe 10a to be introduced into the air chamber Ca.

[0056] A seal ring 47 is provided between the two outward flanges 32b, 32c. This seal ring 47 is made of, for example, silicone rubber. The outer periphery of the seal ring 47 is configured to slide against the inner periphery of the third base portion 31c. This allows the seal ring 47 to provide an airtight seal between the inner periphery of the third base portion 31c and the outer periphery of the tube main body 32a.

[0057] A sheet-like seal ring 48 is provided on the tip end surface of the outward flange 32b. The tip end surface of this seal ring 48 can abut against the bottom surface of the third base portion 31c. This allows the seal ring 48 to close each of the through holes 42b.

[0058] A sheet-like seal ring 49 is provided on the tip end surface of the inward flange 32d.

[0059] In addition, if the spring receiving tube 32 is a resin molded product, at least one of the seal ring 48 and the seal ring 49 can be formed integrally with the spring receiving tube 32 by two-color molding using an elastomer or the like.

[0060] The movement of the outward flange 32c toward the base end is restricted by the biasing force of a first return spring 57a (described later), thereby preventing the spring receiving tube 32 from falling off the third base portion 31c.

[0061] The air / liquid feed shaft 33 is an axial member that functions as a piston. That is, the air / liquid feed shaft 33 can move back and forth along the central axis Ax inside the air / liquid feed cylinder 13. By this movement back and forth, the insertion position of the air / liquid feed shaft 33 relative to the air / liquid feed cylinder 13 can be adjusted.

[0062] In this embodiment, the air / liquid delivery shaft 33 has a first shaft 54 ​​and a second shaft 55. The first shaft 54 ​​and the second shaft 55 are connected to each other by screwing together, thereby constituting a continuous air / liquid delivery shaft 33.

[0063] The first shaft 54 ​​has an outer diameter that allows it to be inserted into the air / liquid supply cylinder 13 , the base 31 , and the spring receiving tube 32 .

[0064] A head 56 is provided at the base end of the first shaft 54. The head 56 is integrally molded using a resin material such as polycarbonate. The head 56 has a generally cylindrical shape with an outer diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the base end side of the base 31. This allows the head 56 to enter the interior of the base 31 when the first shaft 54 ​​advances toward the tip end in the direction of the central axis Ax, and the tip end of the head 56 can be brought into contact with the inward flange 32d of the spring receiving cylinder 32.

[0065] The head 56 also has a recessed groove 56 a formed around the periphery in an area facing the outward flange 32 c of the spring receiving tube 32 .

[0066] An outward flange 54a is provided on the base end side of the first shaft 54. The outward flange 54a is provided at a position spaced a predetermined distance from the head 56. This outward flange 54a can abut against the inward flange 32d via a seal ring 49 inside the spring receiving cylinder 32. The abutment of the outward flange 54a against the seal ring 49 enables the seal ring 49 to provide an airtight seal between the outward flange 54a and the inward flange 32d.

[0067] Furthermore, an annular protrusion 54b protruding in the outer circumferential direction is provided midway along the first shaft 54 ​​at a position corresponding to the first base portion 31a. The tip of the protrusion 54b has an arc-shaped cross section and is slidable relative to the first base portion 31a. This protrusion 54b, together with a rib 68 of the slider 66 (described later), prevents the first shaft 54 ​​from tilting relative to the central axis Ax. As a result, the base end of the first shaft 54 ​​is held by the base 31 and the spring receiving tube 32 in a state in which it is allowed to move back and forth along the central axis Ax while maintaining a clearance with the inner circumferential surface of the inward flange 32d.

[0068] A first return spring 57a is provided between the outward flange 32c of the spring receiving cylinder 32 and the recessed groove 56a of the head 56. The first return spring 57a biases the outward flange 32c of the spring receiving cylinder 32 toward the tip end in the direction of the central axis Ax. As a result, the first return spring 57a presses the outward flange 54a of the first shaft 54 ​​against the seal ring 49, sealing the gap between the inward flange 32d of the spring receiving cylinder 32 and the first shaft 54. The biasing force of this first return spring 57a is set to a biasing force sufficient for the first return spring 57a alone to press the outward flange 54a against the seal ring 49 and seal the gap between the inward flange 32d of the spring receiving cylinder 32 and the first shaft 54.

[0069] Here, the base end portion of the first return spring 57a is housed inside the recessed groove 56a and held by the head 56. That is, the first return spring 57a is held by the head 56 with the base end portion surrounded by the side wall of the recessed groove 56a. This prevents the base end portion of the first return spring 57a from being exposed to the outside even when the first shaft 54 ​​is retracted to the base end side in the direction of the central axis Ax, and prevents interference between the first return spring 57a and the operator's fingers, etc.

[0070] A second return spring 57b is provided between the bottom surface of the second base portion 31b and the inward flange 32d (seal ring 49) of the spring receiving cylinder 32. The second return spring 57b biases the spring receiving cylinder 32 toward the base end in the direction of the central axis Ax.

[0071] The biasing force of the second return spring 57b is set to be weaker than the biasing force of the first return spring 57a. Therefore, when the user or the like presses the head 56, only the second return spring 57b is compressed first. As a result, the spring receiving tube 32 and the first shaft 54 ​​move integrally toward the tip side in the direction of the central axis Ax. The spring receiving tube 32 and the first shaft 54 ​​move to a position where the outward flange 32b abuts against the bottom surface of the third base portion 31c via the seal ring 48. In the following description, this pressed state is referred to as the "first pressed state." When the user or the like further presses the head 56, the first return spring 57a is compressed. As a result, the first shaft 54 ​​moves toward the tip side in the direction of the central axis Ax. The first shaft 54 ​​moves to a position where the head 56 abuts against the inward flange 32d. In the following description, this pressed state will be referred to as the "second pressed state."

[0072] A series of leak holes 60 are provided on the base end side of the head 56 and the first shaft 54. The leak holes 60 are bottomed holes that extend along the central axis Ax. The depth of the leak holes 60 is set to a depth that positions the tips (bottoms) of the leak holes 60 further distally than the through-hole 42a of the base 31 when the head 56 is not being pressed by a user or the like.

[0073] The first shaft 54 ​​is provided with a through hole 58a and a through hole 58b in this order from the tip side. Each of the through holes 58a, 58b penetrates the first shaft 54, for example, in a direction perpendicular to the central axis Ax. As a result, each of the through holes 58a, 58b communicates with the inside and outside of the leak hole 60. When the head 56 is not pressed, the through hole 58a is located at a position corresponding to the through hole 42a of the base 31. When the head 56 is not pressed, the through hole 58b is located at a position disposed within the air chamber Ca.

[0074] A seal ring 65a, a seal ring 65b, and a seal ring 65c are provided on the outer periphery of the air / liquid supply shaft 33 (the first shaft 54 ​​and the second shaft 55) distal to the leak hole 60, in that order from the distal end. In this embodiment, the seal ring 65a and the seal ring 65b are provided on the second shaft 55. The seal ring 65c is provided on the first shaft 54. Each of the seal rings 65a to 65c is slidable relative to the inner circumferential surface of the second cylinder portion 13b. Each of the seal rings 65a to 65c is spaced apart from one another by a predetermined distance in the direction of the central axis Ax. As a result, the seal rings 65a and 65b form a first liquid chamber Aw1 within the second cylinder portion 13b. The seal rings 65b and 65c form a second liquid chamber Aw2 within the second cylinder portion 13b. Furthermore, the seal ring 65a forms a third fluid chamber Aw3 inside the first cylinder portion 13a.

[0075] When the head 56 is not pressed, the first liquid chamber Aw1 communicates with the liquid supply conduit 10w. When the head 56 is not pressed, the second liquid chamber Aw2 communicates with the balloon liquid supply conduit 9w. When the head 56 is not pressed, the third liquid chamber Aw3 communicates with the nozzle liquid supply conduit 7w. Thus, when the head 56 is not pressed, the liquid supply conduit 10w, the balloon liquid supply conduit 9w, and the nozzle liquid supply conduit 7w each communicate with an independent closed space. This prevents fluid in the lumen from flowing back into the balloon liquid supply conduit 9w and the nozzle liquid supply conduit 7w even if the pressure in the lumen into which the endoscope 1 is inserted increases.

[0076] When the head 56 is in the first pressing state, the first liquid chamber Aw1 is opened to the inside of the third liquid chamber Aw3, thereby connecting the liquid supply conduit 10w to the nozzle liquid supply conduit 7w.

[0077] When the head 56 is in the second pressed state, the second liquid chamber Aw2 communicates with the liquid supply conduit 10w and the balloon liquid supply conduit 9w.

[0078] A slider 66 is provided between the seal rings 65b and 65c of the first shaft 54. The slider 66 is made of a resin material or an elastomer. The slider 66 makes sliding contact with the inner peripheral surface of the air / liquid feed cylinder 13, thereby suppressing tilt of the first shaft 54 ​​relative to the air / liquid feed cylinder 13. As a result, the slider 66 guides the first shaft 54 ​​so that it moves back and forth within the air / liquid feed cylinder 13 along the central axis Ax. Details of the slider 66 will be described later.

[0079] In this configuration, compressed air supplied from the air pump 16 is introduced into the air chamber Ca via the air supply conduit 10a and the through-hole 42b. The compressed air is then introduced into the leak hole 60 via the through-hole 58b of the first shaft 54.

[0080] When the head 56 of the air / liquid supply button 11 is not operated by a user or the like, the leak hole 60 is open, allowing the compressed air to be released into the atmosphere through the leak hole 60. At this time, the check valve 44 closes the through-hole 42a (see FIG. 2).

[0081] On the other hand, when the user's finger touches the head 56 of the air / liquid supply button 11, the leak hole 60 is closed, thereby preventing the compressed air from being released into the atmosphere. At this time, the compressed air in the air chamber Ca causes the check valve 44 to open the through-hole 42a (see FIG. 4). As a result, the compressed air is supplied to the nozzle air supply conduit 7a.

[0082] Furthermore, when the head 56 is in the first pressed state, the through-hole 42b is closed by the seal ring 48. This blocks the supply of compressed air to the air chamber Ca. When the supply of compressed air to the air chamber Ca is blocked, the check valve 44 closes the through-hole 42a.

[0083] Furthermore, when the through-hole 42b is closed, compressed air supplied from the air supply pump 16 is supplied to the liquid supply tank 19 via the air supply tube 19a. When the internal pressure of the liquid supply tank 19 is increased by the compressed air, saline solution in the liquid supply tank 19 is supplied to the liquid supply conduit 10w. As described above, when the head 56 is in the first pressing state, the liquid supply conduit 10w is connected to the nozzle liquid supply conduit 7w within the air / liquid supply cylinder 13 (see FIG. 5). Therefore, saline solution is supplied from the liquid supply conduit 10w to the nozzle liquid supply conduit 7w.

[0084] Furthermore, when the head 56 is in the second pressing state, the liquid supply line 10w is connected to the balloon liquid supply line 9w in the air / liquid supply cylinder 13 (see FIG. 6). Therefore, saline is supplied from the liquid supply line 10w to the balloon liquid supply line 9w.

[0085] 7 and 8, the tip 44a of the check valve 44 has a shape that is bent radially inward. That is, the tip 44a of the check valve 44 has a tapered shape in which the inner and outer diameters gradually decrease from the base end side to the tip end side. Furthermore, the tip 44b of the check valve 44 has an arc-shaped cross section.

[0086] 7, when the check valve 44 closes each of the through-holes 42a, the portion that comes into close contact with the outer peripheral surface of the first base portion 31a is limited to the tip 44b of the check valve 44. In other words, even when the check valve 44 closes each of the through-holes 42a, a small gap is formed between the outer peripheral surface of the first base portion 31a and the portion other than the tip 44b of the check valve 44.

[0087] By limiting the point where the check valve 44 abuts against the outer peripheral surface of the first base portion 31a to the tip 44b in this manner, the check valve 44 seals each through hole 42a while making linear contact with the outer periphery of the first base portion 31a.

[0088] If the check valve 44 cannot be prevented from sticking by the compressed air from the air supply pump 16, it is possible to prevent the check valve 44 from sticking to the first base portion 31a by inserting a syringe 70 into the leak hole 60, and then introducing the air from the syringe 70 into the inside of the air / liquid supply button 11 all at once, as shown in Figure 9, to send in compressed air.

[0089] Next, a specific configuration of the slider 66 will be described. As shown in Figures 10 and 11, the slider 66 has a slider body 67 as an annular member and a plurality of ribs 68 (for example, four ribs).

[0090] The slider body 67 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The slider body 67 is held by the air / liquid feed shaft 33 at the connection between the first shaft 54 ​​and the second shaft 55. More specifically, the small diameter portion 54c formed at the tip of the first shaft 54 ​​is inserted into the slider body 67. The second shaft 55 is then connected to the tip of the first shaft 54 ​​by screwing, so that the slider body 67 is held by the air / liquid feed shaft 33.

[0091] Each rib 68 protrudes from the outer peripheral surface of the slider body 67 in the outer diameter direction of the slider body 67. More specifically, each rib 68 protrudes to a position where the tip surface of each rib 68 comes into sliding contact with the inner peripheral surface of the air / liquid supply cylinder 13.

[0092] Each rib 68 extends in the direction of the central axis Ax, which is the longitudinal direction of the air / liquid feed shaft 33. Here, each rib 68 has a sufficient extension length to suppress tilt of the air / liquid feed shaft 33 with respect to the central axis Ax by sliding contact with the inner peripheral surface of the air / liquid feed cylinder 13.

[0093] Furthermore, each rib 68 has a pair of inclined surfaces 68a inclined at an acute angle with respect to the direction of the central axis Ax. In this embodiment, the pair of inclined surfaces 68a is provided at the tip of each rib 68. That is, the pair of inclined surfaces 68a is provided upstream of the liquid (e.g., physiological saline) flowing through the second liquid chamber Aw2 from the liquid supply conduit 10w to the balloon liquid supply conduit 9w. As a result, the tip of each rib 68 forms a V-shape tapered in the direction of the central axis Ax. Note that the upstream end of each rib 68 in the fluid direction is the location where air bubbles are most likely to adhere when the supply of liquid to the second liquid chamber Aw2 begins upon conduit switching.

[0094] With this configuration, when liquid delivery to the balloon 9 begins, air bubbles adhering to the ribs 68 are expelled from the second liquid chamber Aw2 at an early stage after the start of liquid delivery. That is, for example, as shown in FIG. 11 , when the liquid pressure of the liquid (e.g., physiological saline) supplied from the liquid delivery conduit 10w is applied to the air bubbles adhering to the distal end of each rib 68, the air bubbles quickly move along the inclined surfaces 68a toward the proximal end of each inclined surface 68a. Then, the air bubbles that reach the proximal end of each inclined surface 68a detach from the ribs 68 and are guided to the balloon liquid delivery conduit 9w. This allows air bubbles remaining in the second liquid chamber Aw2 to be expelled from the second liquid chamber Aw at an early stage.

[0095] The liquid containing the air bubbles is introduced into the balloon 9, but can be discharged from the balloon 9 by the user operating the suction button 12. After that, the liquid supplied to the balloon 9 is free of air bubbles, and the balloon 9 can be inflated with the liquid free of air bubbles.

[0096] According to this configuration, the air / liquid feed button 11 has a plurality of ribs 68 arranged on the outer periphery of the air / liquid feed shaft 33. This makes it possible to suppress the inclination of the air / liquid feed shaft 33 relative to the central axis Ax of the air / liquid feed cylinder 13 without increasing the diameter of the air / liquid feed shaft 33. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the amount of air bubbles remaining in the second liquid chamber Aw2 during liquid feed while ensuring the ease of inserting the air / liquid feed shaft 33 into the air / liquid feed cylinder 13. In particular, because the inclination of the air / liquid feed shaft 33 relative to the central axis Ax is suppressed when inserting the air / liquid feed shaft 33 into the air / liquid feed cylinder 13, it is possible to effectively prevent damage to the first seal ring 43a and the like due to contact with the air / liquid feed cylinder 13.

[0097] In addition, each rib 68 has an inclined surface 68a that is inclined at an acute angle with respect to the longitudinal direction (central axis Ax) of the air / liquid feed shaft 33. This allows air bubbles that have adhered to each rib 68 during liquid feed to be accurately released from each rib 68 along the inclined surface 68a.

[0098] As a result, the air / liquid feed button 11 can be easily inserted into the air / liquid feed cylinder 13, and the inclusion of air bubbles during liquid feeding can be quickly eliminated.

[0099] In this case, each rib 68 is provided to extend along the central axis Ax, which makes it possible to effectively suppress tilt of the air / liquid supply shaft 33 with respect to the central axis Ax.

[0100] Furthermore, each inclined surface 68a is provided on the end surface of each rib 68 on the upstream side of the liquid flowing through the air / liquid feed cylinder 13 (second liquid chamber Aw2), thereby enabling air bubbles to be more effectively removed from each rib 68.

[0101] 12 and 13, each rib 68 may be provided spirally along the longitudinal axis Ax. In this case, a pair of side surfaces of each rib 68 serve as inclined surfaces 68a. In the example shown in FIGS. 12 and 13, the pair of inclined surfaces 68a are parallel to each other.

[0102] In this case, the slider body 67 is attached to the air / liquid supply shaft 33 in a rotatable state.

[0103] Even in such a configuration, the air / liquid feed button 11 can be easily inserted into the air / liquid feed cylinder 13, and the inclusion of air bubbles during liquid feeding can be quickly eliminated.

[0104] In this case, because each inclined surface 68a is formed in a spiral shape and the slider body 67 is rotatably supported by the air / liquid supply shaft 33, the inclined surface 68a receives the liquid pressure of the liquid flowing from the distal end side to the proximal end side within the second liquid chamber Aw2 and rotates the slider 66. This rotation of the slider 66 causes air bubbles adhering to each rib 68 to detach from each rib 68.

[0105] Next, the configuration of the suction cylinder 14 and the suction button 12 will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0106] 14, the suction cylinder 14 has a cylindrical shape with a bottom. In the following description, the bottom side of the suction cylinder 14 is defined as the distal end side, and the opening side of the suction cylinder 14 is defined as the proximal end side in the direction along the central axis (longitudinal axis) Axv of the suction cylinder 14 and the suction button 12.

[0107] The suction cylinder 14 has a suction port 80, a channel suction port 81, and a balloon suction port 82 at the bottom.

[0108] A cylindrical first bearing 83 is connected to the base end side of the channel suction port 81. A communication hole 83a that communicates the inside and outside of the first bearing 83 is provided midway in the direction of the central axis Axv of the first bearing 83.

[0109] Further, an expanded diameter portion 82a having an inner diameter larger than that of the base end side is formed on the distal end side of the balloon suction port 82.

[0110] The upstream end of the suction pipeline 10v is connected to the suction port 80. The downstream end of the channel suction pipeline 8v is connected to the channel suction port 81. The downstream end of the balloon suction pipeline 9v is connected to the balloon suction port 82. The upstream and downstream of each pipeline are defined based on the flow direction of the fluid to be sucked.

[0111] A nozzle 85 is provided on the outer periphery of the base end side of the suction cylinder 14. The nozzle 85 has an engagement protrusion 85a for engaging with the suction button 12 and an outward flange 85b that protrudes radially outward on the tip side of the engagement protrusion 85a.

[0112] The suction button 12 includes a base 90 , a piston unit 91 , a spring receiving cylinder 92 , and a suction shaft 93 .

[0113] The base 90 is a member for connecting the suction button 12 to the suction cylinder 14. The base 90 is made of a resin material such as polycarbonate. The base 90 has a generally cylindrical shape with a bottom. A first communication hole 90a, a second communication hole 90b, and a third communication hole 90c are provided in the bottom of the base 90. The first communication hole 90a to the third communication hole 90c are through holes in the bottom of the base 90 that respectively connect the inside and outside of the base 90.

[0114] The piston unit 91 is inserted through the first communication hole 90a and the third communication hole 90c. The second communication hole 90b is provided at a position corresponding to the channel suction port 81 and the first bearing 83.

[0115] Furthermore, a second bearing 94 is provided inside the base 90 at a position communicating with the second communication hole 90b. The second bearing 94 has an inner diameter smaller than the inner diameter of the first bearing 83. The second bearing 94 forms a series of bearings together with the first bearing 83 when the suction button 12 is connected to the suction cylinder 14. The suction shaft 93 is inserted through the bearing formed by the first and second bearings 83 and 94.

[0116] An outer tubular member 96 is provided on the outer peripheral surface of the base 90. The outer tubular member 96 is made of a resin material such as silicone rubber. In this embodiment, the outer tubular member 96 is integrally formed with the base 90 by two-color molding.

[0117] An engaging recess 96a is provided on the inner peripheral surface of the distal end of the outer cylindrical member 96. This engaging recess 96a is engageable with the engaging protrusion 85a. The engagement between the engaging recess 96a and the engaging protrusion 85a fixes the base 90 to the suction cylinder 14.

[0118] Furthermore, the tip surface of the outer cylindrical member 96 can abut against the outward flange 85b of the mouthpiece 85. As a result, the tip side of the base 90 is connected to the suction cylinder 14 in an airtight state.

[0119] The piston unit 91 is made of a resin material such as polycarbonate, etc. The piston unit 91 includes a piston plate 98, a plurality of guide walls 99, and a piston 100.

[0120] The piston plate 98 is generally disk-shaped and has a hole 98a in the center through which the first bearing 83 can be inserted. The piston plate 98 also has a notch 98b and is uniformly thick in consideration of formability.

[0121] Each guide wall 99 extends from an edge portion of the piston plate 98 toward the base end. Each guide wall 99 is slidable along the inner circumferential surface of the base 90. At least one of the guide walls 99 is provided with a locking claw hole 99a.

[0122] The piston 100 protrudes distally from the piston plate 98 at a position corresponding to the balloon suction port 82. The piston 100 can be inserted into the balloon suction port 82. The distal end of the piston 100 is formed with a narrowed-diameter portion, for example, whose outer diameter is narrowed in multiple stages. A seal 100a made of elastomer or the like is formed by insert molding in the narrowed-diameter portion of the piston 100.

[0123] The seal 100a has an outer diameter that allows it to slide against the inner circumferential surface of the balloon suction port 82. As a result, the seal 100a airtightly seals the balloon suction port 82. When the piston 100 moves toward the tip end and the seal 100a reaches the enlarged diameter portion 82a, the seal 100a opens the balloon suction port 82.

[0124] The seal 100a is formed to cover the small diameter portion of the piston 100. As a result, even if the small diameter portion of the piston 100 is broken by an external force or the like, the seal 100a prevents the broken pieces from falling into the balloon suction port 82.

[0125] The spring receiving cylinder 92 is made of a resin material such as polycarbonate, etc. The spring receiving cylinder 92 has a cylinder body 105 having a substantially cylindrical shape.

[0126] An outward flange 105a is formed at the tip of the cylindrical body 105. The outward flange 105a has a circular ring shape. The outer diameter of the outward flange 105a is set smaller than the inner diameter of the base 90.

[0127] An inward flange 105b is formed at the base end of the cylindrical body 105. The inward flange 105b has an annular shape. The inner diameter of the inward flange 105b is set to be larger than the outer diameter of the suction shaft 93, which will be described later. The inward flange 105b is also provided with a plurality of vent holes 105c that connect the inside and outside of the cylindrical body 105.

[0128] A locking claw 106 is provided at the tip of the tube body 105 at a position corresponding to the locking claw hole 99a. The locking claw 106 is engaged with the locking claw hole 99a to connect the spring receiving tube 92 to the piston unit 91. This allows the spring receiving tube 92 and the piston unit 91 to move back and forth relative to the base 90 together.

[0129] A sheet-like sealing material 107 is provided on the outer surface of the spring receiving tube 92, covering substantially the entire area from the outward flange 105a to the inward flange 105b. The sealing material 107 is formed by two-color molding with the spring receiving tube 92 using elastomer or the like.

[0130] The sealing material 107 forms a first seal 107a that protrudes radially outward from the outward flange 105a at the tip of the spring receiving tube 92. The first seal 107a is slidable against the inner peripheral surface of the base 90. This allows the first seal 107a to hermetically seal the gap between the base 90 and the spring receiving tube 92.

[0131] Furthermore, a second seal 107b that protrudes in an annular shape is formed at the base end of the spring receiving cylinder 92 by the sealing material 107. The second seal 107b is formed so as to surround the air vent 105c.

[0132] The suction shaft 93 is made of a resin material such as polycarbonate, and has a first shaft portion 110 and a second shaft portion 111. The first shaft portion 110 and the second shaft portion 111 are integrally formed along the direction of the central axis Axv.

[0133] The first shaft portion 110 is disposed on the tip side of the suction shaft 93. The first shaft portion 110 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The outer diameter of the first shaft portion 110 is set to be substantially equal to the inner diameter of the first bearing 83. This allows the first shaft portion 110 to move back and forth inside the first bearing 83 along the direction of the central axis Axv.

[0134] The first shaft portion 110 is also provided with a communication hole 110a that provides communication between the inside and outside of the first shaft portion 110. When the first shaft portion 110 moves back and forth to a position where the communication hole 110a coincides with the communication hole 83a of the first bearing 83, the communication hole 110a provides communication between the suction port 80 and the channel suction port 81. On the other hand, when the communication hole 110a moves to a position displaced from the communication hole 83a of the first bearing 83, the communication between the suction port 80 and the channel suction port 81 is blocked.

[0135] The second shaft portion 111 has a generally cylindrical shape. The outer diameter of the second shaft portion 111 is set to be generally equal to the inner diameter of the second bearing 94. This allows the second shaft portion 111 to move back and forth inside the second bearing 94 along the direction of the central axis Axv.

[0136] The base end side of the second shaft portion 111 penetrates the inward flange 105b and protrudes to the outside of the spring receiving tube 92. A head 112 is provided at the base end of the second shaft portion 111. The head 112 is formed using a resin material such as polycarbonate, for example.

[0137] The tip end surface of the head 112 is formed with a contact surface 112a that can contact the second seal portion 107b of the spring receiving tube 92. The head 112 is provided with a recessed groove 112b around the outer periphery of the contact surface 112a in an area facing the outward flange 105a.

[0138] A first return spring 115 is provided between the outward flange 105a of the spring receiving cylinder 92 and the recessed groove 112b of the head 112. The first return spring 115 biases the suction shaft 93 toward the base end in the direction of the central axis Axv.

[0139] A second return spring 116 is provided between the bottom of the base 90 and the inward flange 105b of the spring receiving cylinder 92. The second return spring 116 biases the spring receiving cylinder 92 toward the base end in the direction of the central axis Axv.

[0140] The biasing force of the second return spring 116 is set to be stronger than the biasing force of the first return spring 115. Therefore, when the user or the like presses the head 112, only the first return spring 115 is compressed first. As a result, the suction shaft 93 and the head 112 move integrally toward the tip end in the direction of the central axis Axv. The suction shaft 93 and the head 112 move to a position where the abutment surface 112a of the head 112 abuts against the second seal 107b of the spring receiving tube 92. In the following description, this pressed state is referred to as the "first pressed state." When the user or the like further presses the head 112, the second return spring 116 is compressed. As a result, the suction shaft 93, the head 112, the spring receiving tube 92, and the piston unit 91 move toward the tip end in the direction of the central axis Axv. The suction shaft 93, head 112, spring receiving cylinder 92, and piston unit 91 move to a position where the spring receiving cylinder 92 abuts against the bottom of the base 90. In the following description, this pressed state will be referred to as the "second pressed state."

[0141] 14 , when the head 112 is not pressed, the contact surface 112a of the head 112 opens the vent hole 105c of the spring receiving tube 92. The communication hole 110a of the first shaft portion 110 is offset from the communication hole 83a of the first bearing 83 in the direction of the central axis Axv, blocking the channel suction port 81 from the suction port 80. The seal 100a of the piston 100 is in sliding contact with the inner wall surface of the balloon suction port 82, blocking the balloon suction port 82 from the suction port 80. As a result, negative suction pressure applied to the suction port 80 from the suction conduit 10v is released to the atmosphere via the notch 98b of the piston unit 91 and the vent hole 105c of the spring receiving tube 92.

[0142] 15, when the head 112 is in the first pressing state, the contact surface 112a of the head 112 closes the vent hole 105c of the spring receiving tube 92. The seal 100a of the piston 100 is in sliding contact with the inner wall surface of the balloon suction port 82, blocking the balloon suction port 82 from the suction port 80. Meanwhile, the communication hole 110a of the first shaft portion 110 is aligned with the communication hole 83a of the first bearing 83 in the direction of the central axis Axv, and the channel suction port 81 is in communication with the suction port 80. As a result, the negative suction pressure applied to the suction port 80 from the suction conduit 10v is transmitted to the channel suction port 81. This allows suction to be achieved using the channel opening 8a.

[0143] 16, when the head 112 is in the second pressing state, the contact surface 112a of the head 112 blocks the air vent 105c of the spring receiving tube 92. The communication hole 110a of the first shaft portion 110 is offset from the communication hole 83a of the first bearing 83 in the direction of the central axis Axv, blocking the channel suction port 81 from the suction port 80. Meanwhile, the seal 100a of the piston 100 is positioned within the expanded diameter portion 82a of the balloon suction port 82, which communicates with the suction port 80 via the internal space of the base 90. As a result, the negative suction pressure applied to the suction port 80 from the suction conduit 10v is transmitted to the balloon suction port 82. This allows suction to be achieved using the balloon conduit 9a.

[0144] For example, as shown in FIGS. 17 to 19, the first seal 107a and the second seal 107b provided on the spring receiving tube 92 of the suction button 12 can be separate. In this case, in the example shown in FIGS. 17 to 19, the spring receiving tube 92 has an additional outward flange 105d further forward than the outward flange 105a. The first seal 107a is held between the two outward flanges 105a and 105d. This allows the first seal 107a to be configured independent of the outward flange 105a. Therefore, even when a pressing force from the second return spring 116 acts on the outward flange 105a in a direction inclined relative to the central axis Axv, the first seal 107a can maintain its sealing performance with the inner circumferential surface of the base 90.

[0145] Next, the configuration of the forceps plug 120 that is detachably attached to the treatment tool insertion port 8b of the operation section 3 will be described with reference to FIG.

[0146] The forceps plug 120 has a cylindrical body 121 and a cover body 122 .

[0147] The cylindrical body 121 is formed by millable molding using, for example, gamma-ray resistant silicone rubber. This cylindrical body 121 has a substantially cylindrical shape. The inner diameter of the cylindrical body 121 is set smaller than the outer diameter of the treatment tool insertion port 8b. This allows the cylindrical body 121 to be attached to the treatment tool insertion port 8b while elastically deforming. In addition, a recessed groove 121a is formed on the outer peripheral surface of the cylindrical body 121.

[0148] The lid 122 is formed by, for example, a liquid injection mold (LIM) using gamma-ray-resistant silicone rubber, and includes a lid body 122a, a connecting ring 122b, and a connecting band 122c.

[0149] The lid main body 122a has a shape that allows it to be attached and detached to the distal end of the cylindrical body 121. The lid main body 122a closes the treatment tool insertion port 8b when attached to the distal end of the cylindrical body 121. The connecting ring 122b can be fitted into the recessed groove 121a of the cylindrical body 121. The lid main body 122a is connected to this connecting ring 122b via a connecting band 122c. In this way, the connecting ring 122b connects the lid main body 122a, which is formed separately from the cylindrical body 121, to the cylindrical body 121.

[0150] If the air / liquid supply button 11, the suction button 12, and the forceps plug 120 are single-use items, they are sterilized using gamma rays or the like. After sterilization, the air / liquid supply button 11, the suction button 12, and the forceps plug 120 are placed on a tray 125 (see FIG. 21 ) and packaged in a sheet 126 made of Tyvek (registered trademark) or the like. This allows the air / liquid supply button 11, the suction button 12, and the forceps plug 120 to be distributed on the market as an accessory set.

[0151] In this case, the forceps plug 120 is placed on the tray 125 with the lid body 122a removed from the tip of the cylindrical body 121 and the connecting band 122c extended. This effectively prevents the lid body 122a from adhering to the cylindrical body 121, even if bleeding material seeps out from the forceps plug 120.

[0152] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and various modifications and variations are possible, which are also within the technical scope of the present invention.

[0153] This application claims priority from U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 632,636, filed April 11, 2024, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety, including the specification, claims, and drawings.

[0154] DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... endoscope 2 ... insertion section 3 ... operation section 4 ... universal cable 6 ... tip section 7 ... air / liquid supply nozzle 7a ... air supply conduit for nozzle 7w ... liquid supply conduit for nozzle 8 ... treatment tool channel 8a ... channel opening 8b ... treatment tool insertion port 8v ... suction conduit for channel 9 ... balloon 9a ... balloon conduit 9v ... balloon suction conduit 9w ... balloon liquid supply conduit 10a ... air supply conduit 10a1 ... first branch conduit 10a2 ... second branch conduit 10v ... suction conduit 10w ... liquid supply conduit 11 ... air / liquid supply button 12 ... suction button 13 ... air / liquid supply cylinder 13a ... first cylinder section 13b ... second cylinder section 13c ... third cylinder section 13d ... Fourth cylinder portion 14 ... suction cylinder 15 ... endoscope connector 15a ... light guide connector 15b ... video connector 15c ... air supply mouthpiece 15d ... liquid supply mouthpiece 15e ... suction mouthpiece 16 ... air supply pump 17 ... suction pump 17a ... suction tube 19 ... liquid supply tank 19a ... air supply tube 19b ... liquid supply tube 31 ... base 31a ... first base portion 31b ... second base portion 31c ... third base portion 32 ... spring receiving tube 32a ... tube main body 32b ... outward flange 32c ... outward flange 32d ... inward flange 33 ... air / liquid supply shaft 35a ... through hole 35b ... through hole 35c ... through hole 35d ... through hole 35e ... through hole 36a ... first tapered surface 36b ... second tapered surface 37 ... nozzle 37a ... engagement protrusion 42a ... through hole 42b ... through hole 43a ... first seal ring 43b ... second seal ring 44 ... check valve 44a ... tip portion 44b ... tip portion 45 ... seal ring 46 ... outer cylindrical member 46a ... engagement recess 47 ... seal ring 48 ... seal ring 49 ... seal ring 50 ... stopper ring 54 ... first shaft 54a ... outward flange 54b ... protrusion 54c ... thin diameter portion 55 ... second shaft 56 ... head 56a ... recessed groove 57a ... first return spring57b ... Second return spring 58a ... Through hole 58b ... Through hole 60 ... Leak hole 65a ... Seal ring 65b ... Seal ring 65c ... Seal ring 66 ... Slider 67 ... Slider body 68 ... Rib 68a ... Inclined surface 70 ... Syringe 80 ... Suction port 81 ... Channel suction port 82 ... Balloon suction port 82a ... Expanded diameter portion 83 ... First bearing 83a ... Communication hole 85 ... Portion 85a ... Engagement protrusion 85b ... Outward flange 90 ... Base 90a ... First communication hole 90b ... Second communication hole 90c ... Third communication hole 91 ... Piston unit 92 ... Spring receiving cylinder 93 ... Suction shaft 94 ... Second bearing 96 ... Outer cylindrical member 96a ... engagement recess 98 ... piston plate 98a ... hole 98b ... notch 99 ... guide wall 99a ... locking claw hole 100 ... piston 100a ... seal 105 ... cylindrical main body 105 ... outward flange 105a ... outward flange 105b ... inward flange 105c ... vent hole 105d ... outward flange 106 ... locking claw 107 ... sealing material 107a ... first seal 107b ... second seal 110 ... first shaft portion 110a ... communication hole 111 ... second shaft portion 112 ... head 112a ... abutment surface 112b ... groove 115 ... first return spring 116 ... second return spring 120 ... Forceps plug 121 ... cylindrical body 121a ... concave groove 122 ... lid body 122a ... lid main body 122b ... connecting ring 122c ... connecting band 125 ... tray 126 ... sheet Ax ... central axis (longitudinal axis) Axv ... central axis (longitudinal axis)

Claims

1. A conduit switching valve for an endoscope, comprising: a shaft member that can be inserted into a cylinder through which a fluid can flow, and whose insertion position within the cylinder is adjustable; and a plurality of ribs that are arranged on the outer periphery of the shaft member and have inclined surfaces that are inclined at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal direction of the shaft member.

2. The conduit switching valve for an endoscope according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of ribs are provided along the longitudinal direction.

3. The conduit switching valve for an endoscope according to claim 2, characterized in that the inclined surfaces are provided at each end of the plurality of ribs.

4. The conduit switching valve for an endoscope according to claim 3, characterized in that the inclined surface is provided at least upstream of the fluid flowing through the cylinder.

5. The conduit switching valve for an endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of ribs are arranged in a spiral shape along the longitudinal direction.

6. The conduit switching valve for an endoscope according to claim 5, wherein the inclined surfaces are provided on the side surfaces of the plurality of ribs.

7. The conduit switching valve for an endoscope according to claim 5, wherein the inclined surfaces are provided on a pair of side surfaces of the plurality of ribs.

8. The conduit switching valve for an endoscope according to claim 7, wherein the pair of side surfaces are arranged parallel to each other.

9. The conduit switching valve for an endoscope according to claim 1, characterized in that the plurality of ribs are provided on an annular member, and the annular member is attached to the outer periphery of the shaft member.

10. The conduit switching valve for an endoscope according to claim 9, wherein the annular member is arranged rotatably about the shaft.

11. The conduit switching valve for an endoscope according to claim 9, wherein the annular member is made of resin or elastomer.

12. An endoscope having a conduit switching valve for an endoscope, which is equipped with a shaft member that can be inserted into a cylinder through which a fluid can flow and whose insertion position within the cylinder is adjustable, and a plurality of ribs that are arranged on the outer periphery of the shaft member and have inclined surfaces that are inclined at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal direction of the shaft member.

13. The endoscope according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of ribs are provided along the longitudinal direction.

14. The endoscope according to claim 13, wherein the inclined surfaces are provided at each end of the plurality of ribs.

15. The endoscope according to claim 14, wherein the inclined surface is provided at least upstream of the fluid flowing through the cylinder.

16. The endoscope according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of ribs are arranged in a spiral shape along the longitudinal direction.

17. The endoscope according to claim 16, wherein the inclined surfaces are provided on the side surfaces of the plurality of ribs.

18. The endoscope according to claim 16, wherein the inclined surfaces are provided on a pair of side surfaces of the plurality of ribs.

19. The endoscope according to claim 18, wherein the pair of side surfaces are arranged parallel to each other.

20. The endoscope according to claim 12, wherein the plurality of ribs are provided on an annular member, and the annular member is attached to the outer periphery of the shaft member.

21. The endoscope according to claim 20, wherein the annular member is arranged rotatably relative to the shaft.

22. The endoscope according to claim 20, wherein the annular member is made of resin or elastomer.

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